Ashkal Alwan is seeking a part-time Library Coordinator to take care of the library space, content, and activities; interacting with library visitors; developing and maintaining our cataloguing system and audiovisual archive.

– To assist Ashkal Alwan staff in compiling reports on the performance of the library.

– To maintain the storage room.

– To ensure communication, transparency and continuity among library staff

Library Cataloging

– To setup and maintain a suitable ILS or cataloguing system, through consulting with expert bodies working in the field/ region (currently using LibraryThing.com)

– To revise existing catalogues, and to compile and complete the entry of remaining data for cataloguing (publications, films, digital archive)

– To setup short orientation for staff, partners, and providing hands-on training when needed.

– To complete and maintain the alphabetical sorting of all items in the library, keeping an accurate call-numbering and labeling system in place with the existing books as well as new arrivals.

Audiovisual Archives

– To complete the migration of the audiovisual materials, from various mediums (tapes, DVDs, and hard drives) onto the new pan.do/ra system.

– To maintain clear documentation of the process of adding materials to the archives, and backing up.

– To maintain a robust backup system for all materials on the AV archives.

– To continue the improvement of the system and solving any technical bugs and glitches.

– To ensure that users and researchers are oriented to how to use the tool, and to encourage further use of it (and populating it).

– To complete the collections of existing artists in mediatheque and contact non-existing artists for new material.

Outreach, Collaborations & Library Development

– To propose and contact possible other specialized libraries to collaborate with. This includes conducting field visits, collaborating with other libraries’ staff, and acquiring any existing indexes for the libraries of choice.

– To provide input for new material to purchase and for the programming to be developed within the space.

– To actively improve the library’s public profile through online activity that includes faceBook posts about new arrivals, tweets, and maintaining the web page and newsletter for library related information.

Publication Distribution

– To set up publication exchanges with institutions regionally and internationally.

– To maintain the bookshop, keep track of the sales and inventory.

– To update the publications page on the Ashkal Alwan website.

– To coordinate online book distribution (Antoine online/Keeward).

– To maintain, outreach and build on library social media presence (Facebook, instagram).

– To manage and assist with staff and visitors’ use of the media center (Xerox copying, scanning, printing; burning/copying CDs/DVDs; supervising access to digital storage).

Skills

– Working knowledge of library cataloguing, indexing, and data entry

– Broad knowledge of ILS programmes available on the market

– Basic knowledge of wordpress/html

– A commitment to the engagement of audiences with libraries and discursive spaces

– Interest in researching for and developing the library content material